Speaker Rules One-Day Salary Deduction for MPs Absent Without Notice

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua, has announced that Members of Parliament (MPs) who failed to notify the House of their absence during Monday morning's roll call will face a one-day salary deduction.

The decision came after Vava’u 16 MP, Hon. Dr. Viliami Latu, raised concerns about the absence of several Cabinet Ministers. At the beginning of the session, only two Ministers were present, falling short of the 15 MPs required for a quorum to proceed. As the Speaker was preparing to adjourn the session, Acting Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi entered the chamber after the roll call had been completed.

Dr. Fusimalohi apologized, explaining that he had been involved in opening the 2025 Pacific Network Meeting of National Ozone Officers, and clarified that other Ministers were attending events for International Firefighters' Day.

Former Prime Minister and Tongatapu 3 MP, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, emphasized the importance of MPs, especially Cabinet Ministers, notifying the House in advance if they will be late or absent. Tongatapu 1 Noble Representative Lord Vaea also supported this, urging the Speaker to enforce disciplinary actions.

In response, Lord Fakafanua cited Rule 29 of the House Procedures, which mandates a one-day salary deduction for MPs who fail to inform the Legislative Assembly of their absence. He instructed Clerk of Parliament, Gloria Pole’o, to work with the Finance Controller and Treasury to implement the salary deductions for MPs who were absent or arrived late without prior notice. This policy also applies to MPs who miss sessions due to illness without prior notification.